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Neil Herndon

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I won my first award for writing in 1991, and took part in multiple Young Authors conferences as a child. I have a background in theater, a BFA in film, and an MFA in writing. My work has been featured at USAToday.com, and I’ve been a contributor at Forbes.com. To date, I’ve written 15 novels, and plan on many more in the future.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is ‘Mechanikal: Rise of the Wolf’. It is high fantasy with a twist. The biggest thing for me when it comes to fantasy is that every world seems stuck in a single era. In thousands of years, not a single technological advance happens. The ‘Mechanikal’ series was born from the idea of what if that wasn’t the case. While internal combustion hasn’t been discovered, it might not be far off. One city employs steam, another used dirigibles, and another has harnessed electricity. Swords and shields are still a major aspect, but guns are also in play. Gears have come home to roost. It’s a world where magick still exists yet so do crude machines.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Every book has a soundtrack that helps to inspire me. Those songs maybe ones I download or create, but I want each story to have a unique sound, a unique atmosphere. On top of that, I sometimes try to pair snacks with books as well. While writing, I may get a craving for a certain item, and I’ve always been a believer in whatever helps put words on the page. So, one story might need salty chips, while another needs chocolate and peanut butter.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I would have to say my primary influences were Stephen King, Michael Crichton, and RL Stein. I’ve loved so many books over the years, but growing up, those three were the authors I couldn’t put down.

What are you working on now?
Lots of sequels, and a ton of new ideas.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still trying to find the best method, but places like Awesome Gang are great for emerging authors.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Quality over quantity. Read and re-read, edit and re-edit. Make sure that what you put into the market is the best it can be.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write everyday, as much as possible. Even if it’s only five pages, it’s still something.

What are you reading now?
The Game of Thrones series.

What’s next for you as a writer?
More research and more writing. A glorious, never-ending cycle.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Bachman Books Collection, Firestarter, and Sphere. And a guide to surviving on a deserted island.